Islam Makhachev Criticizes Dana White’s Harsh Decision to Sideline Arman Tsarukyan

Islam Makhachev, talks about Arman Tsarukyan not getting the interim lightweight championship opportunity.

Islam Makhachev Criticizes Dana White’s Harsh Decision to Sideline Arman Tsarukyan

Islam Makhachev slams UFC for not picking Arman Tsarukyan (via X)

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Recently, Dana White officially announced the first-ever UFC-Paramount card featuring Paddy Pimblett competing against Justin Gaethje. Both fighters are scheduled to clash for the Interim Lightweight Championship at UFC 324. However, many fans and experts, including Islam Makhachev, expressed disappointment regarding Arman Tsarukyan being overlooked by the organisation. 

Earlier this year, Tsarukyan nearly fought a championship fight against Islam Makhachev, but unexpectedly lost that opportunity due to a sudden injury. Despite their rivalry, both fighters still share a mutually respected relationship.

Following that, the UFC appeared to sideline him, with White publicly insisting the Armenian contender must earn his title shot. During a recent interview, Makhachev expressed disappointment, calling the situation unfair considering Tsarukyan remains the deserving #1 ranked lightweight division.

The organization may not like it, but they make more and more fights that I don’t understand. Let’s be honest, Arman isn’t going to fight any time soon. It’s Pimblett vs Gaethje. Whoever wins gets a shot at Topuria. Meaning one more year of layoff for Arman. It’s tough. Arman should probably wait a bit and be patient.

Islam Makhachev via Red Corner MMA 

In his last outing, Tsarukyan submitted Dan Hooker, firmly establishing himself as one of the most dangerous contenders. Despite the victory, Tsarukyan understood his title shot would not arrive soon, accepting the situation and preparing to wait. Alongside Islam Makhachev, UFC veteran Daniel Cormier also voiced support for Tsarukyan receiving some version of a lightweight championship opportunity.

Justin Gaethje, who previously threatened retirement before finally receiving the interim title shot, has also openly discussed the ongoing situation. Gaethje credited Tsarukyan’s abilities and admitted the scenario felt unfair, while reminding that such difficult circumstances are part of sports. For ‘The Highlight,’ this represents a final chance to claim the undisputed title after previously failing twice before.

Tsarukyan is set to face Shara ‘Bullet’ Magomedov in an upcoming grappling bout, which will take place on December 30, in Yerevan, Armenia. He has accepted several similar grappling matches this year, using them strategically to remain active while sharpening his overall competitive instincts. It will be interesting to observe when Tsarukyan finally receives the long-awaited lightweight title opportunity he deserves.

Islam Makhachev talks about fighting Kamaru Usman next 

Islam Makhachev’s recent welterweight title victory over Jack Della Maddalena sent shockwaves through the division and immediately reshaped competitive expectations. The win created uncertainty as several rising fighters now struggle to secure their long-awaited opportunities within the division.

Islam Makhachev wants to fight Kamru Usman
Islam Makhachev wants to fight Kamru Usman (via X)

However, Makhachev is uninterested in these younger challengers, instead expressing a strong desire to face Kamaru Usman. The Dagestani believes Usman presents the toughest stylistic test, essential for achieving his ultimate goal of securing the most championship title defenses. Recently, Makhachev elaborated further on his ambitions, explaining why facing Usman aligns perfectly with his pursuit.

The media doesn’t believe in this fight, but in my opinion Usman would steamroll through each of these up-and-comers like Morales, Prates…Those guys haven’t been checked yet. I think Usman would be the hardest fight for me.

Islam Makhachev continued.

Michael Morales and Carlos Prates earned impressive victories at UFC 322 and immediately issued bold callouts toward Islam Makhachev. Additionally, Ian Garry defeated former champion Belal Muhammad, further strengthening his status as a legitimate top contender within the division.

All three contenders criticized Makhachev’s interest in fighting Kamaru Usman, arguing the aging legend does not deserve an immediate welterweight title opportunity. Usman, on the other hand, is excited to share the Octagon with the pound-for-pound champ.

Islam Makhachev has also talked about potentially fighting his long-standing rivalry with lightweight champion Ilia Topuria. The Dagestani also mentioned being ready to fight at the upcoming White House event, and fans are excited about what the promotion decides next.

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